Threats

Trump's 'Good Relationship' With Russia Is Slipping Away

By shuttering a consulate and expelling 60 diplomats in response to the spy poisoning in Britain, he’s taken a remarkably hard line against Putin.

Ideas

John Bolton Is Misunderstood

The actual track record of Trump’s next national-security adviser offers cause for cautious optimism.

Policy

How John Bolton Views US Allies and Adversaries

His 2007 memoir lays out the incoming national-security adviser’s worldview.

Threats

How Much Does Artificial Intelligence Threaten National Security?

One lawmaker proposed a commission to examine the emerging tech through a national security lens.

Ideas

The Administration Must Explain Its Use-of-Force Theories. Today.

That's not just a good idea; it's the law. A report to Congress is due on Monday.

Ideas

Whatever Happened to Trump's Counterterrorism Strategy?

His approach borrows from his predecessors’, while exacerbating their worst, most counterproductive tendencies.

Ideas

The US Will Spend $500M on Syrian Kurds This Year. For What?

The Trump administration is embarking on a state-building project with no clear strategy, benchmarks, or goals.

Ideas

Russia Is a Great Power Once Again

Putin’s Syria intervention saved Assad. But is he ready for what comes next?

Ideas

The Dark Arts of Foreign Influence-Peddling

The Mueller investigation is showing the extent of Russian operations. But its real import extends far beyond that.

Ideas

Global Elites Cannot Save a World In Turmoil

Last weekend’s security conference in Munich was a stark reminder that this class has nothing of substance to offer a world in turmoil.

Ideas

Don't Waste the New US Water-Security Strategy

President Trump should order the inclusion of water issues — a major driver of security problems — in the national defense and security strategies.

Ideas

The US Is Drifting Toward War With a NATO Ally

It's not too late to stem Turkey's turn toward Russia — and defuse a World War I-style conflict.

Ideas

How to Keep US Missile Defense on the Right Track

Use the coming funding boost to smooth the development of a new kill vehicle and increase GMD testing in general.

Threats

When the Islamic State Came to Libya

Since the fall of Qaddafi, the war-torn country’s militias have sought to contain extremism. But at what cost?

Threats

Peace Through Bombings: The US Strategy in Afghanistan

The goal of negotiating with the Taliban is at odds with President Trump’s statements.

Threats

Mattis: New Sea-Launched Cruise Missile Is a Bargaining Chip

But don’t call the low-yield option a ‘tactical nuclear weapon’ — it’s still strategic, he says.

Ideas

An Advise-and-Assist Commander Has Advice for the US Army's New Partner-Trainers

Security Force Assistance Brigades, or SFABs, are a great concept, but even the best ideas have limitations and room for improvement.

Ideas

Trump’s National-Security Strategy Is Focused on Great Powers. He Isn’t.

On Tuesday, the president rushed past Russia and China to talk about immigrants, terrorism, and North Korea.

Ideas

If We're Going to Export More US Arms, Let's Do It Smarter

Here are some ways to help ensure that rising sales don't undermine American security.